Ever shop at your favorite store, leave your contact info for a discount, and then soon after, you're getting texts about their latest deals? And before you know it, you're back at the store, scoring another great purchase thanks to those texts.
That’s the power of SMS and MMS texting, where businesses can meet their customers right where they are — on their mobile phones!
According to a report by Martech, 75% of consumers made a purchase after seeing a promotion through SMS. This presents a huge marketing opportunity, especially for small businesses.
Let’s break down the differences between SMS and MMS and see how you can leverage both mediums to build effective marketing strategies.
What’s SMS and MMS?
Short Message Service, or SMS in short, is a text message with under 160 characters sent over a wireless communication network.
Multimedia Messaging Service, or MMS, takes it a step further by allowing users to send multimedia content such as images, videos, and audio files.
SMS and MMS: key differences
Knowing the differences between SMS and MMS can help you make the most out of their capabilities.
- Length:
SMS messages are limited to 160 characters, while MMS allows for more extended messages, up to 1,600 characters. - Multimedia capabilities:
SMS services can only send text-based messages. Think of it as the classic text message — short and sweet. With MMS, you can add images, videos, GIFs, animation, audio files, and more, making them more visually engaging. - Network prerequisites:
SMS is compatible with virtually every mobile device and can be sent over the cellular network’s control channel, making it less dependent on data connectivity. This is useful, especially in areas with poor data coverage. In contrast, MMS requires both devices to have the same compatible device and network. It also relies heavily on mobile data connections (3G, 4G, or 5G) for sending multimedia content, which may be a challenge when sending large files.
How SMS and MMS are used in business
SMS use cases
- Promotional campaigns:
Businesses can use SMS to send promotional offers and seasonal discounts as they are quick, direct, and action-oriented, engaging customers in an instant. - Time-sensitive notifications:
SMS messages can grab a customer’s immediate attention. Messages like transaction alerts, order confirmations, and notifications on abandoned shopping carts can all be sent to customers through SMS to keep them engaged. - Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
SMS is also commonly used for enhancing security and device access. For example, verification codes and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) are sent through SMS to users during login processes, boosting account security. - Customer Support:
SMS can be used for customer support, providing quick resolutions to queries and issues. AI-based text chatbots are also useful, providing interactive messaging to customers with more complex problems. - Appointment setting:
Businesses can send messages with links to online booking systems where customers can schedule appointments at their convenience. You can also send reminders as the day of their appointment approaches.
MMS use cases
- Media-rich campaigns:
MMS content like images, videos, and audio clips make for a more attention-grabbing marketing campaign. Customers tend to interact more with a business when there is a visual element. - Product launches and demonstrations:
MMS offers a direct, personal way to update customers on upcoming products, especially if you offer exclusive early bird access to mailing list subscribers. You can also send video demos to help them better understand the features and benefits. - Customer testimonials:
Videos or pictures of satisfied customers help in showcasing genuine customer experiences. It also plays a crucial role in building trust and credibility with potential clients. - Product tutorials:
MMS is great for sharing detailed step-by-step instructions and tutorials, especially for products like software tools, DIY kits, or home appliances that require visual guidance. - Virtual fax:
Important documents, contracts, and forms can be sent securely through MMS — without the hassle and cost of a physical fax machine. This makes it convenient for on-the-go professionals. These messages can also be encrypted, ensuring the privacy and security of the information being sent.
Boosting your business texting with Grasshopper
From quick SMS messages to engaging visual content, Grasshopper's virtual phone system has your back with built-in business texting capabilities.
Getting started with Grasshopper
Setting up your business with Grasshopper is easy. Here’s how:
- Small businesses need to complete an SMS registration as mandated by the industry. This process involves verifying your business's legitimacy, outlining the types of messages you intend to send, and describing how you'll obtain customer consent through opt-in and opt-out mechanisms.
- Whether it's a local (10DLC) or toll-free number, Grasshopper ensures business compliance when using SMS and MMS features.
- Grasshopper makes SMS registration simple with plenty of resources and support.
Building connections with business texting
In the debate of SMS vs. MMS, the good news is that you don’t have to choose one over the other. At the end of the day, it's not just about sending messages — it’s about connecting. And at Grasshopper, we want you to stay connected and in communication with your customer case so you never miss an opportunity. It’s time to meet your customers where they are.
Make every message count. Unlock the power of SMS and MMS with Grasshopper. Explore our solution.